DeMeco Ryans: Andre Johnson Hall of Fame induction 'means everything to our organization'
Former Houston Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Saturday, and DeMeco Ryans understands how big it is for the franchise. Before the induction, the Texans head coach spoke to reporters and was asked about Johnson being honored at Canton.
“Andre Johnson going into the Hall of Fame, it means everything to our organization,” Ryans said. “Every person that’s worked in this organization, every player who’s strapped it up and put on that Texans jersey, Andre is representing everyone. There’s no better guy than Andre to be the first Houston Texan going in a sa Hall of Famer. Definitely deserving of it. He’s always been the best player in any field that he stepped on, and he’s been a great man in the community, great leader as well. …We’re happy to be there to support Andre and wouldn’t want to do it for any other guy.”
Johnson closed out the Hall of Fame ceremony, and the 2024 class includes, Dwight Freeney, Randy Gradishar, Devin Hester, Steve McMichael, Julius Peppers and Patrick Willis. The Texans selected Johnson at No. 3 overall in the 2003 NFL Draft out of Miami and had a memorable career. During his time in Houston (2003-2014), Johnson was selected to the Pro Bowl seven times, named to the All-Pro Team four times and led the NFL in receptions (2006, 2008) and receiving yards (2008, 2009). Johnson played for the Indianapolis Colts (2015) and Tennesee Titans (2016) before announcing his retirement during the 2016 season. He finished his career with 1,062 receptions, 14,185 yards and 70 touchdowns.
Andre Johnson says HOF induction is for the ‘whole city of Houston’
When Johnson learned that he was being inducted into the Hall of Fame, he explained why it wasn’t just meaningful to him. “I don’t think this was only just for me,” Johnson said, per the Texans’ official website. “I think this was for the whole city of Houston. It’s for the whole organization. Just hearing people talk about…grown men telling me that they were crying. Having people to tell you that God gave us a superhero here in Houston. Those are things that you don’t even realize how people look up to you or you playing that game can affect a city.”
Johnson added: “I already told people in Canton that they better get ready, because Houston’s going to show up and show out. The love I’ve received from this city and the fans, it’s truly been great. I